G.I.F.T. 9-10-17

September 10, 2017 TODAY’S TEXTS Ezekiel 33:7-11Psalm 119:33-40Romans 13:8-14Matthew 18:15-20GATHERED BY GRACEConflict is a part of relationships and life in community. Jesus' words in today's gospel are often used in situations having to do with church discipline. The prophet Ezekiel tells of warning the wicked to turn from their ways, and Paul reminds us that love is the fulfilling of the law. We are assured that Christ is present among us with gifts of peace and reconciliation.Discuss in your household or small group: * What is usually at the root of conflict?* What happens if conflict is ignored?* What are the risks of confronting someone who has offended you?* How might the conversation change if Christ’s presence is acknowledged from the beginning?DAILY BIBLE READINGSThese readings are related to the Sunday readings. M-W reflect upon the past Sunday’s readings and Th-Sa prepare for the next Sunday. Try to take time each day to read the assigned Bible passage.

Sunday Matthew 18:15-20

Monday Psalm 103:8-12

Tuesday Genesis 45:1-20

Wednesday Genesis 50:15-21

Thursday Psalm 119:33-36

Friday Romans 10:15b-17

Saturday Ezekiel 33:1-6

Sunday Matthew 18:21-35

Next Sunday: Genesis 50:15-21; Psalm 103:1-13; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEKFor the Week: Keep me on the path of reconciliation with others.Throughout the Day: Thank you for your presence.Blessing to Share: May God take delight in all that you do.For mealtime say responsively: Lay aside the works of darkness: put on the armor of light.Autumn Mealtime Prayer:

For food we eat,

for clothes to wear,

for nightly rest

and daily care

we thank you loving God.

Amen.

FOR FURTHER REFLECTION Devotional Practice: Think of a recent conflict you have had with another. Sit with you palms up on your lap. Mentally place yourself in one palm and the person with who you had the conflict in the other palm. Hold your hands out and ask God to bless each with love. Then gently fold your hands together and ask God to help you in reconciliation with the other.Autumn Ritual: As we watch leaves fluttering to the ground in the fall, we are reminded that nature's cycles are mirrored in our lives. Autumn is a time for letting go and to practice getting out of the way and letting Spirit take charge of our lives. Place a symbol of autumn – a leaf, an acorn – in your devotional area. Let it remind you to let go and let God.SCATTERED TO SERVEToday is World Suicide Prevention Day. It is also a National Day of Prayer for suicide prevention. People who take their lives don't want to die—they just want to stop hurting. They cannot see any options for the future. If you believe that a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care, and getting a doctor or psychologist involved. Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously. It's not just a warning sign that the person is thinking about suicide—it's a cry for help. Check out this website for helpful suggestions with warning signs and other resources, and/ search on “suicide prevention” for more ideas.